The objective of this course is to gain an understanding and synthesize materials gleaned from a broad range of ecosystems across western North America. We emphasize breadth of knowledge and integration of materials into an understanding of the physical, biological, cultural, and sometimes political interactions within and between ecosystems. This synthesis approach varies from the more common narrow foci of specialists who concentrate on specific relationships.

Objectives:

1. Gain an understanding of the biological, physical, cultural, and political constraints that have shaped and continue to shape ecosystems.
2. Develop an ability to synthesize information and gain a fundamental understanding of the drivers that dictate land cover distribution.
3. Understand that humans are an integral part of the ecosystem and that pre-Columbian populations have been driving ecosystem characteristics in North America far longer than commonly thought by the lay person.

Instructors:
Doug Ramsey
NR 355A
435-797-3783

Teaching Assistant:
Brian Cardall